In a swift response to the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza, the United States executed a vital airlift operation today, transporting 24.5 metric tons (over 54,000 pounds) of UN humanitarian supplies. The delivery, facilitated by a U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft, is aimed at providing critical medical resources and food assistance to the beleaguered people of Gaza.
The supplies will be transported via ground from Egypt into Gaza and distributed by UN agencies. This initiative supplements the United States’ commitment, evidenced by the delivery of over 500,000 pounds of food assistance just last week. Additional flights are already in the planning stages, underscoring the nation’s dedication to alleviating the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Today’s consignment includes medical provisions to bolster Gaza’s health system and ready-to-use foods tailored for both adult and child populations among the displaced. Given the staggering figures of 1.7 million internally displaced individuals and 2.2 million in dire need of humanitarian aid, increased support is imperative to safeguard lives and mitigate the suffering of the most vulnerable.
Responding to a request from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Department of Defense’s U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) initiated the transport of these life-saving supplies during a humanitarian pause in hostilities. The U.S. remains at the forefront of the humanitarian response in Gaza, steering efforts to provide essential assistance to those in urgent need.
Demonstrating its commitment, the United States has mobilized $100 million in humanitarian aid for civilians affected by the conflict. As the primary contributor to UNRWA, the leading implementer on the ground in Gaza, the U.S. continues to lead by example. Acknowledging significant contributions from various donor partners, the U.S. encourages others to follow suit.
Despite these efforts, the UN’s global appeal in response to the crisis remains critically underfunded, with only 21 percent of the required funds secured. The United States calls upon the international community to urgently increase support and fulfill the commitments made to address this pressing humanitarian situation.
